We’re currently working on our latest itineraries and if you contact us, we’ll let you know as soon as they get posted to the website.

Our next adventure is planned for the fall of 2018.

What can you expect from one of our tours? Here’s the lowdown on our North India trip…

This 14-day women-only tour of North India is one of our most popular at WanderTours and sells out quickly. You’ll take in the highlights of North India’s spectacular architecture as you explore the Jain temples, Agra’s Red Fort, Jaipur—often referred to as The Pink City—the Royal City Palace and of course, the iconic Taj Mahal – a breathtaking experience.

But this is more than a tour of the highlights. You’ll also partake in one of India’s biggest festivals, Diwali, the Festival of Lights and, if you choose the Varanasi add-on, you’ll witness the spirituality and culture of India in aarti (prayer) ceremonies on the Ganges River.

You’ll be immersed in Indian culture in an intimate way as you are welcomed into homes for cooking classes, demonstrations and meals. And, you’ll have an opportunity to see firsthand the organizations that are helping marginalized women and children by visiting The Salaam Baalak Trust and the Sambhali Trust – often a highlight for many of our tour participants.

There’s nothing like traveling with a group of women to explore another culture! And with the ample time to shop the colorful markets and explore some dining on your own, you’ll leave this tour not only with a deep love for India, but a feeling of sisterhood with the group.

With only 15 spots, this tour sells out every time and this one will be no exception! Contact us right away to get on our North India waiting list or if you have any questions about this tour.

Cheers and happy travels!

Teresa

]]>http://wandertours.com/experience-north-india/feed/0Learning About New Orleanshttp://wandertours.com/learning-about-new-orleans/
http://wandertours.com/learning-about-new-orleans/#respondTue, 15 Aug 2017 15:01:24 +0000http://wandertours.com/?p=14264On the New Orleans Culinary Tour from Wandertours you will experience this Louisiana city through its varied food cultures. To whet your appetite for travel to the Crescent City, here are other facts about New Orleans.

It is called the Crescent City because it sits in a bend of the Mississippi River, a bend which curves in the shape of a crescent.

The Mississippi began creating that crescent around 2200 BCE. Archaeologists think that people began living where New Orleans is now somewhere between 300 and 400 CE. We know they made pottery, and it’s likely they traded with other tribes up and down the river.

Frenchman Jean-Baptiste LeMoyne, Sieur de Bienville, founded the city of Nouvelle Orleans on May 7, 1718. The city was named to honor the Duke of Orleans, who was regent of France at the time. Note that date: 2018 is an important anniversary year.

At parades in New Orleans — and there are plenty — there are bands. What about the people you’ll see behind the musicians, waving handkerchiefs, twirling parasols, dancing through the streets? They are second lining, a New Orleans tradition begun as jazz bands played in funeral processions, and mourners and friends joined in the walk. Doesn’t have to be a funeral to bring forth second liners now, though.

A visit to the New Orleans Museum of Art will reveal a collection of nearly 40,000 artworks, particularly strong in art from France, from Africa, and from the Americas.

The Museum of Art is located in New Orleans City Park. The park provides 1,300 acres of green space and recreation for the city. Founded in 1854, it is one of the country’s oldest urban parks. Grounds include sports fields, forested walking trails, and a historic carousel.

Voodoo, an idea long associated with New Orleans, is a mystical practice involving, among other things, belief a supreme being, intercessors or saints, and use of drums and chanting. It had its beginnings in the religions of West Africa. Slavery times took believers into contact with other religions of Africa, to communities in Brazil and the Caribbean, and to New Orleans. It has been both banned and praised in the city across the centuries. The most famous voodoo queen is Marie Laveau, who died in 1881. If you visit her tomb in Saint Louis Cemetery Number 1 you’ll see that people still leave offerings to seek her favor.

Ragtime, swing, brass band music, Creole music, Cajun music, Zydeco, blues, soul, pop, and rock and roll have all crossed paths in the music of New Orleans. There’s a strong country music factor. Gospel and spiritual music have history in the city, too. All that said, the first opera ever performed in the United States took place in New Orleans, in 1796. In the nineteenth century, New Orleans native Louis Moreau Gottschalk expanded classical music‘s boundaries by drawing on ideas from his mother’s Creole background to compose his works. These days, the New Orleans Opera Company is going strong and the musician governed Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra, based in New Orleans, brings top class classical music to the Gulf south.

Photographs by Nicole Bauer, tpsDave, and llambrano, all courtesy of Pixabay.

Kerry Dexter writes about the arts, history and travel for print, online, and broadcast, as well as at her own site Music Road.

]]>http://wandertours.com/learning-about-new-orleans/feed/0Eating Vegetarian in Santa Fehttp://wandertours.com/eating-vegetarian-in-santa-fe/
http://wandertours.com/eating-vegetarian-in-santa-fe/#respondWed, 02 Aug 2017 15:30:25 +0000http://wandertours.com/?p=14216 WanderTours Santa Fe trip offers the opportunity to learn about culinary styles of Santa Fe and the southwest through visits with respected cooks and chefs. Corn, beans, rice, chiles of all sorts feature in the food you will learn about. You’ll have the chance to explore to explore vegetarian food in Santa Fe on your own, too. Here are ideas to help you begin that exploration.

Cowgirl BBQ might not come first to mind when you are thinking of enjoying a vegetarian meal in Santa Fe. Their Five Pepper Nachos have been singled out for praise by the Wall Street Journal, though, and you will find a range of vegetarian choices for quesadillas, veg selections in the burger menu, vegetarian chili, plenty of side dishes, and for comfort food, a popular butternut squash casserole. The restaurant is in a hundred year old adobe a short way off the Plaza, and veg dishes are marked with a bright green leaf on the menu.

No need for menu markings at Annapurna’s World Cafe: everything on the menu is vegetarian and much is or can be made vegan. When restaurant founder Yashoda Naidoo moved from India to New Mexico, she found she had to cook for herself as there was no place around which met her strict Ayurvedic dining requirements. She was soon asked to cook for others, and Annapurna’s came to be. Many of the dishes are Indian, there are many creative veg combinations, and an extensive dessert menu as well. Menu items feature seasonal produce and include a South Indian Sampler plate, Masala Dosa, and Kitchari. In another creative combination there are burritos which use traditional Indian flatbread chapati instead of tortillas to hold the ingredients. Annapurna’s is on Saint Michael’s Drive.

The Plaza Cafe has been dishing up American diner fare and New Mexico favorites to Santa Fe residents and visitors since 1905. The menu includes dishes from the current owners’ Greek heritage as well. Look closely at the menu and you’ll find veg dishes among the meat offerings. You can have tacos filled with calabacitas (a form of squash), a Greek salad with feta and olives, fajitas with portabella mushrooms, or perhaps huevos rancheros with red and green (known in Santa Fe as Christmas) chile.

At Bumblebee’s Baja Grill, you’ll find an informal atmosphere and a menu which draws from New Mexican, Mexican, and American cooking. Tofu and Beyond Meat vegan chicken are offered among the choices to customize your taco or burrito. A rarity in Santa Fe, there is vegan tortilla stew (it’s usually flavored with meat) and as a long simmering dish, it’s not one a restaurant can easily customize for non-meat eaters. Other vegetarian friendly dishes include a whole range of vegetarian burritos and tacos and the choice to have any of their burgers with a vegetarian patty.

A brewpub might not strike you as a likely place for a vegetarian meal, but Second Street Brewery in The Railyard district has you covered. Starters include a New Mexico cheese plate and nachos you can customize by adding mushrooms. There is plenty of veg-based fare on the main menu too. Dishes include the Total Vegetarian, which includes sweet potato, quinoa, and fresh veg, a Smoked Portabella Wrap, seasonal vegetables, and green chile mac and cheese. At times your meal will come with a side of live music, as well. There are two other locations in Santa Fe.

Santa Fe has been a crossroads of cultures, trade, arts, and food for more than four hundred years. It still is. Seeking out vegetarian food in Santa Fe offers unique ways to explore those cultural intersections. Learn about Wandertours Santa Fe culinary trip where you’ll meet up with chefs, cooks, and scholars, and have the chance to explore the tastes of Santa Fe on your own, too.

Kerry Dexter writes about the arts, history and travel for print, online, and broadcast, as well as at her own site Music Road.

]]>http://wandertours.com/eating-vegetarian-in-santa-fe/feed/0Papua New Guinea Celebrates at The Goroka Showhttp://wandertours.com/papua-new-guinea-celebrates-at-the-goroka-show/
http://wandertours.com/papua-new-guinea-celebrates-at-the-goroka-show/#respondWed, 19 Jul 2017 03:43:36 +0000http://wandertours.com/?p=14209Papua New Guinea is a country where people often live separated by geography and history, focused on their own nearby community and tribe. Singsings, though, are gatherings where tribes share their traditional dress, music, and dance. The largest of these, named for the town in which it is held, is the Goroka Show.

In 2018 the Goroka Show will mark its 61st anniversary. It began when members of the Papua New Guinea police force who came from Australia were looking for ways to encourage tribes to interact with each other. Remembering tribal gatherings in Australia, they decided to introduce the idea to PNG. These days natives of Papua New Guinea and visitors from across the world come to experience the Goroka Show — and it will be part of Wandertours 2018 visit to Papua New Guinea.

You will see dancers and singers who paint their faces and bodies in many colors and designs. They will dress in costumes which might include head and body adornment made of feathers of all sorts, bone and wood ornament, and in the case of the Mudmen from the Asaro Valley, head and face covering made of clay and meant, some say, to suggest or evoke ghosts and spirits. One story tells that tribe members, fleeing an attack, hid in the Asaro river. When they rose up their bodies were covered with the light colored mud from the river. Their attackers thought they were spirits and ran away. Later, still covered with mud, they went to see where the other tribe was. Their adversaries, seeing them on land, were even more convinced they were seeing ghosts and were frightened away. Adding fearsome masks to their attire (they thought river mud would be poisonous if applied to their faces), the Mudmen built up the battle attire for which they are still known.

The singing and drumming you will hear at the Goroka Show will feature vocal harmony and rhythm, and different patterns of drum sounds. It is bound to have a lot of variety: more than 700 languages are spoken on Papua New Guinea. Many of the songs and dances tell stories related to local myths, legends, and history, and may have ceremonial purposes too. If you’d like a preview of what some of the music may be like, Healing, Feasting and Magical Ritual: Songs and Dance From Papua New Guinea is a recording which offers music from five of Papua New Guinea’s regions.

It can be quite a sight, and sound, as the dancers and singers from varied regions compete to show off their cultures and tell their stories through music, dance, and costume at the Goroka Show. Many New Guineans come to experience and learn about their own culture. Visitors from around the world join them. Would you like to join in too? Find out more about Wandertours Papua New Guinea tour which in September 2018 will include the Goroka Show.

Photographs by The Keys/Pixabay (person in traditional dress) and Beth Whitman (Asaro Mudman)

*****

Kerry Dexter writes about the arts, history, and travel for print, online, and broadcast media and at her own site Music Road

]]>http://wandertours.com/papua-new-guinea-celebrates-at-the-goroka-show/feed/0A Q&A with Bonnie from Santa Fe’s Kakawa Chocolate Househttp://wandertours.com/a-qa-with-bonnie-from-santa-fes-kakawa-chocolate-house/
http://wandertours.com/a-qa-with-bonnie-from-santa-fes-kakawa-chocolate-house/#respondTue, 27 Jun 2017 16:21:52 +0000http://wandertours.com/?p=14159We do some chocolate tasting on our Santa Fe Culinary Tour and one of our favorite stops is the Kakawa Chocolate House, best-known for its chocolate elixirs. We thought it would be interesting to get a little bit of background about this delectable business from Bonnie Bennett, who co-owns it with her husband, Tony.

Q. Drinking chocolate or elixir is your house specialty. Can you tell us a little bit about the history of drinking chocolate?A. It’s a looong history but here’s a quick version!

The Theobroma Cacao (tree) species, which is believed to have been around for over 10 thousand years, began to be processed by the Olmec in southern Mexico over three millennia ago. The rulers of the Maya appear in research to have been the first to create a cacao, chocolaty, frothy drink. The Aztecs who followed also used cacao as a drink and as a form of currency (cacao beans). Post destruction of the Aztec culture, the Spanish conquerors and many European capitals perpetuated “drinking chocolate” long before it became the super sweet, milky version most people recognize today as “hot chocolate” or the solid processed bars of our current history. Cacao has one of the longest histories with a wealth of historical and pictorial imagery dating back thousands of years. Truly “food of the Gods”

Q. Why did you choose to make drinking chocolate your main focus?A. Kakawa Chocolate House was founded on the concept of re-introducing guests to chocolate! With extensive research of the role and recipes of cacao (chocolate) in the Mayan and Aztec cultures as well as in old Europe and colonial America, this remains a fascination and focus of Kakawa. Over the years we have used this research as a platform to create new and special contemporary elixir blends as well as amazing handmade truffles, caramels, baked goods and even organic ice creams!

Q. What is your favorite drinking elixir? Why?A. With 16 to choose from I have several favorites! My single top pick? That has to be the Mayan Full Spice. In addition to being historically based on recipes from (literally) thousands of years ago it is amazingly complex with layers and layers of flavors created by herbs, florals, spices, nuts and, of course, chili.

Q. What is the most popular item you sell?A. Our elixirs as a category are the most popular reason to come to Kakawa Chocolate House but our single most popular item is our amazing sea salt caramel. It is unlike any other you may have tried. Dreamy and delicious!

Q. I know your caramels are made with agave rather than sugar. What other local flavors will we find in your chocolates?A. We are big believers in local and seasonal, and never use preservatives or corn syrups. Depending on the season, you may find a variety of local ingredients including mint, lavender, pinon nuts, apricots and of course, many varietals of New Mexican chilies! Other regional ingredients include prickly pear, mescal and other herbs.

Q. How did you get into the chocolate business? How long have you been in the business?A. After leaving New York’s fashion industry we were intrigued by the concept and research that founded Kakawa Chocolate House and wanted to find a way to perpetuate these ideas and share some chocolate love! My husband and I have owned and run Kakawa for over six years. You can find one of us there every day!

Q. Do you eat chocolate every day?A. Absolutely! I find a meal isn’t complete without a bite of good dark chocolate. There is the happiness (serotonin) factor of course, but also extensive medical research detailing how healthful good quality dark chocolate is for our bodies, hearts and minds! So, what’s not to love!

Q. What are your favorite chocolate flavor combinations?A. Too many to name! Our chocolatiers are always creating new and unusual combinations to delight the palette, so I am never without a “new” favorite! Some of my classic favorites include Blueberry and Basil, and Cherry Chili. Really anything with chili and dark chocolate; those Mayans knew what they were doing thousands of years ago!

Photo credits:
All photos supplied by Kakawa Chocolate House

]]>http://wandertours.com/a-qa-with-bonnie-from-santa-fes-kakawa-chocolate-house/feed/0North India Women-only Cultural Tourhttp://wandertours.com/north-india-women-only-cultural-tour-fall-2012/
http://wandertours.com/north-india-women-only-cultural-tour-fall-2012/#respondSun, 15 Jan 2012 04:04:09 +0000http://wandertours.com/?p=2021women-only tour includes many of North India's highlights as well as experiences specially chosen for the woman interested in an unparalleled India experience. You'll visit the Taj Mahal, enjoy a spectacular evening of Diwali festivities and a take trip to the ancient temple complex at Bateshwar. You'll also be actively involved in the local culture as you have lunch at the home of a Jodhpur family, watch a live Bollywood performance that will be a feast for the senses and visit handicraft workshops benefiting a village's poor children.]]>

WanderTours Giving Program – A portion of your tour cost will go to supporting a non-profit program in North India. You will have a chance to visit and learn more about the program during the tour.

This 14-day women-only tour includes many of North India’s highlights as well as experiences for the woman interested in an unparalleled India experience.

You’ll visit the Taj Mahal, enjoy a spectacular evening of Diwali festivities and a take trip to the ancient temple complex at Bateshwar. You’ll also be actively involved in the local culture as you have lunch at the home of a Jodhpur family, watch a live Bollywood performance that will be a feast for the senses and visit handicraft workshops benefiting a village’s poor children.

Itinerary
Day 1
November 4, 2012 – Arrive Delhi
Upon arrival at the airport (usually late evening), you will be met by a driver and transferred to your hotel. Overnight in Delhi.

Day 2
November 5, 2012 – Delhi
On this, your first full day in India, the group will tour both Old and New Delhi. You’ll start by visiting Old Delhi which is filled with street markets and bazaars found among a maze of narrow lanes. You’ll visit the famous Red Fort, the Jama MasjidMosque and bustling Chandni Chowk – an area known for its variety of street stalls and shops.

After lunch, the group will tour New Delhi with its wide tree-lined boulevards and upscale homes. You’ll see beautiful parks, the magnificent Parliament Building, Rashtrapati Bhawan (the official residence of the President of India) and India Gate. You’ll also visit some of New Delhi’s more interesting sites including Qutab Minar, the 72.5 meter tower that dates back to the 13th century, and Humanyunʹs Tomb (built in the 16th century).

This will be a full day and in the evening the group will go to the Kingdom of Dreams to see a Bollywood musical show. This theatrical performance is the ultimate in entertainment. Located across acres of land, this magnificent event distills India into one iconic destination and brings to life a blend of Indiaʹs art, culture, heritage, craft, cuisine and performing arts. Overnight in Delhi.

HIGHLIGHT! Today will be a fantastic introduction to not only the city of Delhi but also to India itself as you’ll see a wide cross-section of life and culture. While the Kingdom of Dreams is entertainment, it is an excellent overview of things to come during your journey.

Day 3
November 6, 2012 – Delhi‐ Jodhpur ‐ Rohet
After breakfast, the group will transfer to the airport to board a flight to Jodhpur. Upon arrival, you’ll tour the area, visiting Mehrangarh Fort and Jaswant Thada, a marble memorial to Maharaja Jaswant Singh. Some sections of the thin marble walls are translucent (often referred to as something of a miracle). You’ll also visit Umaid Bhawan Palace – the only Indian palace built in the mid-20th century and a good representation of Indo‐colonial style.

For lunch, you’ll be welcomed into the home of a local family, where you’ll get to experience the hospitality for which India is so famous. You’ll see what a typical Rajasthani home looks like and have the chance to learn about local culture and customs.

In the afternoon, you’ll drive to Rohetgarh. Overnight in Rohet.

HIGHLIGHT! You’ll marvel at Mehrangarh Fort which stands sentinel to the grandeur of the past. It houses a palace intricately adorned with long carved panels and latticed windows that are exquisitely created from red sandstone and include a rich collection of palanquins, howdas, royal cradels and miniature paintings.

Day 4
November 7, 2012 – Rohet
Today, you’ll spend the morning enjoying a cooking demonstrationand tasting. You’ll learn to prepare some delightful traditional Indian cuisine and take home recipes, photos and memories of this amazing meal.

In the afternoon, you’ll take a jeep safari to the nearby Rabari and Bishnoi villages, where locals maintain quite traditional lifestyles. Overnight in Rohet.

HIGHLIGHT! The Bishnois are a community famous for their rich cultural Rajasthani life and their true love for nature and animals. They are protectorates of this area which is dominated by deer and antelope, often seen grazing in the fields.

Day 5
November 8, 2012 – Rohet ‐ Deogarh
After an early breakfast, the group will drive to Deogarh (approximately 6 hours away). Upon arrival, you’ll check in to your magnificent hotel, which is a castle that dates back to medieval Rajasthan, and enjoy lunch. In the afternoon, you’ll have some leisure time to relax or perhaps hike in the hills or take a walk through the village.

In the evening there will be a cultural performance by local artists and musicians. Overnight in Deogarh.

Day 6
November 9, 2012 – Deogarh
This will be another day to fully enjoy the area and take advantage of a number of activities available. This might include a morning walk with breakfast served along the way, a Jeep drive into the peaceful countryside or a walk in the woods or village. If you’re interested, you may arrange (at your own expense) a relaxing massage by an expert Ayurvedic masseur from Kerala! Overnight in Deogarh.

Day 7
November 10, 2012 – Deogarh ‐ Jaipur
After breakfast, the group will drive to Jaipur (approximately 6 hours) and have lunch along the way. Upon arrival, you’ll check in to the hotel and have time to freshen up before some sightseeing.

In the afternoon, you’ll have time to explore the local colorful bazaar. Here you can souvenir shop and also sample some local vendor foods and sweet treats. You may also get your hands painted with henna from roadside mehandiwalas (ladies that specialize in painting hands with henna). Overnight in Jaipur.

HIGHLIGHT! Known as the Pink City, the origins of Jaipur can be traced back to the 18th century, during the reign of Jai Singh II who ascended the Amber throne in 1699. Today it has grown into a bustling metropolis yet retains its character and charm. Jaipur is filled with massive forts, magnificent palaces,exquisite temples and lush gardens.

Day 8
November 11, 2012 – Jaipur
Today, you’ll take a full day-tour of Jaipur, starting with the Amber Fort. You may ride an elephant or choose to walk the short distance to the main palace. This is an extremely well-preserved building and delightful to explore. You’ll have a chance to visit the Hall of Victory (glittering with mirrors), Jai Mahal and the Temple of Kali.

In the afternoon, your city tour will continue with stops at the Jantar Mantar (Astronomical Observatory) and the Maharaja’s City Palace. Overnight in Jaipur.

Day 9
November 12, 2012 – Jaipur ‐ Karauli
In the morning, the group will drive about 4 hours to the ancient city of Karauli, in time for lunch.

In the afternoon, you’ll walk or go by camel cart to see this 600-year-old city where one can visit local handicraft shops such as those making laquerware, bangles, wooden toys, bamboo items, traditional sweets and more.

You’ll then visit the 500-year-old city palace which is full of frescos, fine stone carvings and paintings. Before returning to the hotel, you may also visit the famous Lord Krishna Temple (Madan Mohan ji) which is in the city palace campus. At night there is an evening Aarti (prayer). Overnight in Kaurali.

HIGHLIGHT!Karauli is somewhat off the beaten path, therefore not as touristy as many places in India. But it’s here you’ll get a sense of royal history and beauty. Known for its red sandstone, it is also considered a holy place to many Indians.

Day 10
November 13, 2012 – Karauli ‐ Chambal
In the early morning, you have the option to take a morning yoga class on the palace terrace (from where you can also view the sunrise!). For yoginis of all levels, this gentle routine will be a great way to start the day.

After breakfast, you’ll enjoy a tour of the area which includes an organic dairy and farm (including horses!). You will then have the chance to stop by a nearby school for poor children and a handicraft workshop that’s run by a local N.G.O.

In the evening, the group will celebrate Diwali, the festival of lights, which is celebrated all over India by welcoming the goddess of wealth, Lakshmi.

You’ll join a family for a Puja (prayer) ceremony. There’ll be an offering of flowers, sweets and money and the evening will end in a fireworks display.

Overnight in Chambal.

HIGHLIGHT!Diwali celebrations will be a highlight of the tour. You’ll get to experience the local culture and religion during a very auspicious time. The night will be filled with a sumptuous variety of traditional Indian cuisine – home cooked Indian food and sweets!

Day 11
November 14, 2012 – Chambal
Before breakfast, the group will head out to the nearby Chambal River, where you’ll take a boat ride along this protected waterway. Trained naturalists will accompany the group and provide expert information on the local wildlife. This is a very relaxing and special experience.

After the boat ride, you’ll return to the lodge for breakfast and then have some leisure time to explore the beautiful surroundings, perhaps visiting the nearby village or simply relaxing in the peaceful garden.

In the late afternoon, the group will set out to visit the Bateshwar Temples, an ancient complex located on the Yamuna River. Overnight in Chambal.

HIGHLIGHT! The Bateshwar Temples, located just 10 kilometers away, consist of more than 100 temples dedicated to the Hindu God, Shiva. You’ll be visiting during the annual animal fair which coincides with the most auspicious period for praying at Bateshwar and is an important time for saints, sadhus, tradesmen and villagers.

Day 12November 15, 2012 – Chambal ‐ Agra
In the morning, the group will depart for Agra. Your first stop is Agra Fort, a massive structure with a 70‐foot high, 1.5‐mile long wall encompassing an astounding collection of well preserved buildings, many of them completed during the reign of Emperor Shah Jahan.

At sunset, you’ll visit Taj Mahal the most iconic of all sights in India. Overnight in Agra.

HIGHLIGHT! The Taj Mahal is a breathtaking memorial to Shah Jahan’s wife, Mumtaz Mahal. It took 22 years to complete and was designed and planned by Persian architect Ustad Isa. It’s recognized for its stunning design, perfect symmetry and its elegant domes, intricately carved screens and some of the best inlay work ever created.

Day 13
November 16, 2012 – Agra ‐ Delhi
In the morning, you’ll have another chance to visit the Taj Mahal at sunrise for a different perspective of this wonder. You’ll return to the hotel for breakfast and then drive to Delhi (approximately 4 hours).

Upon arrival in Delhi, you’ll check in to the hotel and will have some leisure time for either last minute shopping or relaxing. Overnight in Delhi.

Day 14
November 17, 2012 – Delhi ‐ Flight home
On this last full day in India, you’ll be taken on an hour-long guided walk of Delhi led by a young person well-acquainted with street life. While this is a look at India’s sadder side, it will be an enlightening way to leave the country as you’ll have a better understanding of how people learn to survive in the city. All proceeds go directly to helping the Trust that is behind putting together this tour. (Note that this is not a slum tour but a walk through neighborhoods.)

After lunch, you’ll have the rest of the day free for last minute souvenir shopping and relaxing. You’ll have access to the hotel until 7 p.m. and will be transferred to the airport in time for your late night flight home. If you are adding Varanasi on to your itinerary, the add-on includes an additional night in Delhi.

Add-on Option: Varanasi

Cost includes one overnight in Delhi, 2 nights in Varanasi

Day 15
November 18, 2012 – Delhi ‐ Varanasi (Meals: B)
In the morning, you’ll be transferred to the airport to board the short flight to Varanasi. Upon arrival at Varanasi, you’ll check in to your hotel.

After lunch, you’ll drive to Sarnath, one of the most sacred places for Buddhists. This is where Buddha gave his first sermon after attaining enlightenment. You’ll visit famous Dhamaekha Stupa, Moolgandha Kuti Vihar and the Sarnath Museum, which has a rich collection of antiques from Ancient India.

In the late afternoon, you’ll return to Varanasi and, in the evening, visit the Ganges where you’ll take an unforgettable sunset boat ride before witnessing the evening Aarti (prayer) ceremony. Overnight in Varanasi.

HIGHLIGHT! The Aarti is a Hindu devotional hymn normally sung at the conclusion of any religious ceremony or puja, or simply by itself at sunrise or sunset. This is an incredibly spiritual event and one you won’t forget.

Day 16
November 19, 2012 – Varanasi (Meals: B)
In the early morning, you’ll drive to Daswamedh Ghat and take a boat ride on the Ganges again, this time to see the cremation Ghats to witness the long-held traditions of one of the worldʹs oldest and most important religions. You’ll enjoy sunrise while boating on the river.

Later in the morning, you’ll visit the Kashi Vishwanath Temple which is on the way back to the hotel.

In the afternoon, you’ll be treated to a city tour that includes a visit to Bharat Mata Mandir (Mother India Temple), Durga Temple and Benares Hindu University. Overnight in Varanasi.

Day 17
November 20, 2012 – Varanasi ‐ Delhi (Meals: B)
In the morning, you’ll spend time along the Ghats and have one last chance to photograph the pilgrims and devotees as well as the bazaar, filled with food, religious items and souvenirs.

Today you’ll also have a chance to meet with an astrologer to see what your future holds!

In the afternoon, you’ll transfer to the airport to board your flight for Delhi.

Once in Delhi, you’ll check into a hotel to wash and change before transferring to the airport for your evening flight home OR stay the night (additional $50/$65 single) for a flight the following day.

Interested in sharing? We do our best to pair up travelers so as to avoid the single supplement. However, priority is given to the first deposits received. If you’re interested in sharing – PLEASE send in deposit as soon as possible in order to take advantage of this benefit. (Why a single supplement charge? See this FAQ page for an explanation.)

Final payment due no later than September 4, 2012.
Price includes: 13 nights accommodation in 3-4 star hotels, all ground transportation within India, sightseeing entrance fees, English-speaking guides, all meals and bottled water.

Price does not include: Flights to and from Delhi, visas, evacuation insurance (highly recommended), souvenirs, personal purchases (such as snacks), beverages and tips (suggested for all guides and drivers).

It’s easy to make your deposit of $800! Simply click on the Buy Now button below and you’ll be taken to PayPal where you add your debit or credit card information. Subsequent payments may be made through PayPal by sending to: beth (at) wandertours (dot) com.

North India Packing List: Provided upon registration

North India Cultural Tour 2012 Itinerary (pdf)

Tour Leader:

About Dianne
Dianne has spent the last 17 years living life On the Road, mostly in India but with forays into Nepal, SE Asia and brief stopovers in Europe, the Middle East and her home country of New Zealand. Her deep love of India has become a lifetime romance as she has penetrated the deepest jungles, climbed to the source of the Goddess River Ganga and marched with a thousand naked saddhu in the famous Khumba Mela. A wordsmith and a writer, she has written two books on India and is working on a third.

She loves to pester the locals with questions, beg for stories and seek out recipes and has developed a unique insight into India and her amazing variety of life. She measures journeys not in miles but in friendships and loves to lead people directly to the heart of India through the heart connections she has made over the years. Travel for her is about living your passion so she will be asking you about yours and trying to match your deepest desires with the popular Indian phrase, “Sub kutch milega” (Everything is possible).

]]>http://wandertours.com/north-india-women-only-cultural-tour-fall-2012/feed/0Ireland Women-only Tourhttp://wandertours.com/ireland-women-only-tour/
http://wandertours.com/ireland-women-only-tour/#respondSun, 08 Jan 2017 22:25:20 +0000http://wandertours.com/?p=13403women-only tour highlights the very best of Ireland and includes visits to some of the country's absolute highlights such as the Ring of Kerry, a visit to the Aran Islands, a chance to kiss the Blarney Stone and sightseeing in Dublin, Galway and Killarney.]]>.

*We’re sorry you missed this tour. Please contact us if you’d like to be put on the wait list (if/when someone cancels) or would like to join us on a future Ireland tour.

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HIGHLIGHTS of the Ireland Women-only Tour include:

* Tours of the Wild Atlantic Way, including the Ring of Kerry, the Cliffs of Moher and the Dingle Peninsula
* A trip to the magical Aran Islands
* The chance to kiss the Blarney Stone
* Tastings at the Guinness Storehouse and Jameson’s Old Midleton Distillery
* An Irish soda bread-making demonstration
* A 5% discount on land costs for returning WanderTours participants

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Ireland Women-only Tour Itinerary

The tour begins on April 20, 2018, with a full day of touring. We encourage you to arrive the previous day (or earlier) so you can take advantage of this first full day. If you arrive on Day 1, you may join the tour in-progress. We can help you book your first night in Dublin and your transportation from the airport—neither are included in the tour cost.

NOTE: This tour starts in Dublin and ends in Shannon. You can either schedule your roundtrip tickets as such or you can fly roundtrip Dublin and then make your way to Dublin (for example via flight, train or bus) at the end of trip. Please check the Ireland FAQs for additional information.

Day 1Friday, April 20, 2018 – DublinMeals: Breakfast, Dinner

After a wonderful breakfast at the hotel, this first day on the Emerald Isle will be spent touring the country’s sophisticated capital of Dublin! We’ll travel through the city and enjoy a tour that includes visits to Kilmainham Gaol (jail), the Trinity College Library and the Book of Kells exhibition. We’ll also stop by the Guinness Storehouse for a tour and sample! Along the way, we’ll have lunch (not included in tour cost).

In the afternoon, we’ll visit Phoenix Park and St. Patrick’s Cathedral.

In the late afternoon, we’ll have some free time to relax, shake off jet-lag or shop prior to our welcome dinner.

HIGHLIGHT! Today we’ll get an excellent overview of Dublin and experience the highlights of this very sophisticated, yet historical city.

Day 2Saturday, April 21, 2018 – DublinMeals: Breakfast, Lunch

After breakfast, we’ll travel to the country estate of Powerscourt House and Gardens, home to what is considered one of the top gardens in Europe. We’ll have lunch at the Happy Pear, a specialty restaurant owned by twins (get it? pear/pair?). We’ll then continue to the village of Avoca to see the famous handweavers at work at the Avoca Mill. On our way back to Dublin, we’ll visit Glendalough, a 6th century monastic site that’s nestled in a valley in the Wicklow Mountains.

Upon returning to Dublin, the remainder of the day will be free for sightseeing on your own, shopping and dinner.

This morning after breakfast, we’ll check out of our hotel and make our way west toward the dynamic city of Galway. Along the way, we’ll stop at Clonmacnoise, an early Christian site founded by St. Ciarán in the mid-6th century. Located on the eastern bank of the River Shannon, we’ll find the ruins of a cathedral, churches from the 10th – 13th centuries and the largest collection of early Christian grave slabs in Western Europe. We’ll have lunch (not included) at a nearby restaurant.

Upon arrival in Galway, we’ll check into our hotel and then take a walking tour of the city with a local guide who will help bring the city (and Ireland) alive with stories! There will be plenty of options to enjoy dinner on your own this evening.

Today we’ll have a free day to explore this magic City of the Tribes! Once a city of merchants (tribes), Galway is now an artistic and contemporary destination also known as one of Ireland’s most Irish of cities.

There’s so much to enjoy here, including the Spanish Arch and Lynch’s Castle. You might also simply wander the narrow cobblestone streets to shop or to listen to some of the best buskers in the world perform.

After breakfast, we’ll take the ferry to Inis Oirr, the smallest (and many say best!) of the Aran Islands. This island is a splendid example of Celtic and early Christian heritage. The island is rugged and natural with thatch-roofed stone cottages dotting the landscape. In the afternoon, we’ll take an Aran knit workshop, attend an Irish bread-making workshop and then have dinner at a local restaurant.

Overnight on Inis Oirr at various B&Bs.

NOTE – On this day, we’ll only be carrying a small overnight bag for our two nights on Inis Oirr. We’ll leave the majority of our things secured with our driver who will meet us in two days.

HIGHLIGHT! Today we’ll get to experience the Wild Atlantic Way on the water when we take the ferry to Inis Oirr. We’ll instantly be transported back in time once we set foot on the Aran Islands.

Day 6Wednesday, April 25, 2018 – Inis OirrMeals: Breakfast, Dinner

Today we’ll take the local island ferry and venture to the largest Aran Island, Inis Mor. Here, we’ll take a tour that will include a visit to the island’s main attraction, the stone fort, Dun Aengus. During our time on Inis Mor, there will be time for shopping and wandering around on our own.

Upon returning to Inis Oirr, we’ll enjoy dinner in a charming restaurant before returning to our B&Bs for the night.

After breakfast, we’ll take the ferry to Doolin where we’ll meet back up with our bus and driver. From here, we’ll travel through the Burren, a region known for its beautiful but hardscrabble trails and ancient sites.

After lunch at a local restaurant (on our own), we’ll visit one of Ireland’s natural wonders and most popular destinations in the country: the Cliffs of Moher. The cliffs rise to over 700 feet and provide magnificent 360 degree views. We’ll have time to walk around and photograph the area before heading to the charming village of Adare.

This morning after breakfast, we’ll enjoy some sightseeing around Adare. This quaint village is known for its thatched roofed cottages, beautiful park and monastic ruins. After some touring, we’ll head to the Dingle Peninsula. Perhaps not as well-known as the Iveragh Peninsula where the Ring of Kerry is located, the Dingle Peninsula is less touristy but every bit as beautiful.

After driving the spectacular road around the peninsula, we’ll have lunch in the small fishing port town of Dingle. Here we’ll also have a chance to try our hand at making pottery at Louis Mulcahy’s studio before traveling on to Killarney.

HIGHLIGHT! It’s difficult to say which you’ll love more: the drive around the Dingle Peninsula or the truly charming town itself. Either way, this will be another incredible day on Ireland’s west coast.

Day 9Saturday, April 28, 2018 – KillarneyMeals: Breakfast, Dinner

Today we’ll visit Jameson’s Old Midleton Distillery and learn how their whiskey is made and how it differs from whiskeys made elsewhere.

We’ll end the day with a visit to Blarney Castle where the famous Blarney Stone can be found. Don’t forget, it must be kissed to receive the luck!

Today we’re going to experience more of Ireland’s legendary scenery as we drive the Ring of Kerry. The road winds around Ireland’s highest mountains, the Macgillycuddy’s Reeks, and the Atlantic coast. This is called the Wild Atlantic Way for a reason and you’ll soon see why.

At the most dramatic scenery, we’ll stop for photos and to take in the breathtaking views. We’ll also visit The Skellig Experience Visitor Centre where we’ll learn about the monks who lived on the Skellig Islands. (By the way, Skellig Michael was recently used as a location for Star Wars: The Force Awakens. Watch it before the trip!)

We’ll continue through the remote villages of Cahirciveen and Waterville—one of Charlie Chaplin’s favorite places—and pass through the colorful village of Sneem. We’ll also stop at Moll’s Gap to see the Three Lakes of Killarney. We’ll even have a chance to stop and stroll around the Muckross Gardens located on the shores of Muckross Lake.

We’ll return to the hotel for an early dinner and then enjoy a dance workshop where we’ll learn some simple Irish dance steps.

HIGHLIGHT! Today will be a full day with lots of sightseeing. You’ll see perhaps some familiar sights around the Ring of Kerry and then you’ll have a chance to break out your dancing shoes.

Day 11Monday, April 30, 2018 – KillarneyMeals: Breakfast

Today we’ll have a day free to explore the charming town of Killarney. You might choose to: wander the town on your own (take a two-hour guided tour, rent a bike and peddle through Killarney National Park),shop in the downtown area, or visit a pub (or two!) and take in some of the local “trad” music.

Today, on our last full day in Ireland, we’ll leave Killarney and visit Bunratty Castle. Dating back to the 1400s, this is one of the most well-restored and authentic castles in Ireland. We’ll tour this beautiful and ancient fortress and then have lunch at Durty Nelly’s, the quintessential Irish pub. We’ll then visit the Folk Park, which recreates life in rural Ireland during the 19th century.

Afterward, we’ll check in to the spectacular Dromoland Castle and then head out for our final dinner, a medieval banquet(!) at either Bunratty or Knappogue Castle.

* We’re sorry you missed this tour. Please contact us if you’d like to be put on the wait list (if/when someone cancels) or would like to join us on a future Ireland tour.

Costs

Tour: $4,750
Single supplement: $1,300

** Note: Costs are based on the Euro/US dollar exchange rate of Euro 1.00 = US Dollar 1.05. If this changes 10% plus or minus, costs will be adjusted to reflect this.

Interested in sharing the cost with another fabulous traveler? We do our best to pair up our tour participants so you can avoid the single supplement. However, priority is given to the first deposits received. If you’re interested in sharing, please send in your deposit as soon as possible in order to take advantage of this benefit. (Why a single supplement? See this FAQ page for an explanation.)

Tour price does not include: International flights to Dublin and from Shannon, Irish visa (if required), travel insurance, some meals, souvenirs, personal purchases (such as books and snacks) and beverages. Bottled water is not included at our request – we encourage you to bring your own reusable bottle for the tour.

This trip is limited to 18 women and requires an $800 deposit to secure your spot.

Minimum bookings required: 8 people (minimum reached)

Final payment due no later than February 1, 2018.

It’s easy to register…

We love checks as it helps keep our costs down by avoiding pesky credit card fees. If you’re able to pay the deposit or full amount by check or wire transfer, we’ll not only love you more but we’ll send you a free copy of one of Beth’s books (your choice which one). ** U.S. residents receive a print copy, international residents receive a PDF.

Trip Escort: Beth WhitmanAfter hearing personally from dozens of people absolutely captured by their time in Ireland (and dozens more who wanted to see it for themselves), Beth decided it was time to travel there and discover the charms of this island nation for herself. Suffice it to say, she was as swept away by the Emerald Isle as everyone else—and she knows you will be, too!

Beth is the author of the Wanderlust and Lipstick guides including The Essential Guide for Women Traveling Solo and For Women Traveling to India. She is also the publisher and founder of Wanderlust and Lipstick and WanderTours and hosts the Be Bold podcast which can be found through your favorite podcast provider.

Only sparkling wine produced in France can be labeled Champagne and similarly, only whiskey which is actually produced in Ireland can be called Irish whiskey. If you’re traveling with us on our Women-Only Ireland Tour we’ll be visiting Jameson’s Old Midleton Distillery, one of the largest distilleries on the island.

The word whiskey is the anglicized version of the Gaelic word uisce from uisce betha—or “water of life,” as whiskey is known. History claims that the Irish were the first distillers in the British Isles and that Irish whiskey was once the most popular spirit in the world. However, after the late 1800s, the bottom dropped out of the market, with the result that within 100 years there were only three distilleries left in the country.

Although Irish Whiskey has often had the reputation of being a cheap shot to accompany a beer, it is currently in an upswing of quality and its popularity is booming. As of early 2017 there are now 16 distilleries operating, with another 14 in the planning stages. There’s obviously no shortage of whiskey to sip when you’re visiting the Emerald Isle!

So, which whiskeys should you try? Here are a few suggestions:

Jameson Irish Whiskey—(established in 1790) is the best-known of the Irish whiskeys—in fact, it’s one of the most popular in the world. They produce a number blended whiskeys which are produced in the Midleton Distillery, just outside the city of Cork. This is where we’ll be visiting on tour.

Bushmills—established in 1608 and producer of popular blended whiskeys is the world’s oldest whiskey distillery. Their distillery is located in Northern Ireland so you won’t be visiting it on our tour…but I’m sure you’ll still be able to find one of their whiskeys in the local pub.

Redbreast—is a single pot whiskey brand that is owned by Jameson and produced at its Midleton distillery. Try the Lustau Edition which is finished in sherry casks from Bodegas Lustau in Spain (thus the name).

Teeling Single Malt—Dublin was traditionally the heart of the Irish whiskey industry but when the industry fell on hard times, the last distillery in the city closed its doors in 1976…until now. The Teeling family began producing whiskey in Dublin in 1782. They are now back in the city, opening the first new distillery there in over 100 years. You’ll find eight different whiskeys which are produced by them.

There are far too many whiskeys to list them all. I do suggest, however, that you try not only some of the blended whiskeys, but also some of the single malts. Even if you don’t consider yourself a whiskey drinker, you may end up bringing a bottle or two home with you!

Although this tour is currently sold out, please contact us if you’re interested in being put on the waitlist in case of a cancellation or if you’re interested in any of our other tours.